Lying nearly 200km off the Italian coast, the Med's second biggest island is as close to Africa as it is to Italy which helps to make the unique atmosphere, culture and language found on the island. Sardinia holidays provide some incredible contrasts, from the stunning beaches and crystal clear water found across the southeast and northeast coasts to the lush mountains found further inland. As an island steeped in culture and tradition, Sardinia has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Med, especially during the summer. Flights take only 2.5 hours from the UK and once there, temperatures can hit 25° during the summer months.
| Construction is kept to a minimum here because of the nature reserve... |
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Tourists from across Europe flood on holiday to Sardinia, not just in search of the beautiful beaches which line the popular tourist hotspots but also to uncover the other side of the island. Numerous lagoons which teem with marine life can be found right along the coast, and further inland, towering mountains and volcanic craters dot the landscape. Here you can explore caves, go hiking in the mountains or watch the local wildlife. Sardinia's festivals which take place throughout the year in towns and villages across the island are a great way of experiencing local customs and culture with traditional costumes and local music on offer.
What to do...
Although there are lots of things to do and places to see away from the coast, the miles of golden, sandy beaches are what make holidays in Sardinia so popular. The Costa Rei beaches on the island's south east coast are famed for their crystal clear water and huge swathes of unspoiled sand. Construction is kept to a minimum here because of the nature reserve, Capo Ferrato, which is found just to the north. Aside from relaxing on the beach, visitors to Capo Ferrato can also try their hand at watersports with windsurfers and scuba diving equipment available to rent nearby. Spiaggia di Porto Giuncu beach in Villasimius on the south coast is another of the island's picture perfect beaches with its white sand and clear water. There you can also find the 5* Timi Ama Sofitel hotel which along with luxurious surroundings also has a relaxing spa. Other stunning beaches which are popular with families can also be found near the island's capital, Cagliari which include Torresalinas which offers more secluded sunbathing and Geremeas with its sand dunes and rock formations.
More Sardinians live be aged 100 or more than anywhere else in world leading many visitors to sample the local food which local people believe is the key to their lifestyle. Bread forms a staple of the Sardinian diet and 'pane frattau' is one of the most common types found all over the isle. Other popular dishes include fire-roasted suckling pig, pasta and sheep's cheese called 'Pecorino'.
Due to its geographic location between Europe and Africa, Sardinia has been conquered by many different nations throughout history and as a result, it has some fascinating historical sights. The island's capital, Cagliari, boasts some of the best preserved traces of the past, namely in its old quarters. Here you can find a host of Roman remains including a theatre, and ancient living quarters not to mention ancient churches and religious statues that can be found in the San Saturnino and Santuario di Bonaria areas of the city. The best way to find out more about the history of Sardinia all under one roof is by visiting the museum citadel in Cagliari which contains a host of ancient artifacts.
The heart of Sardinia is home to the island's vast array of wildlife including Sardinian deer, falcons, kites, black vultures, wild horses and other endangered species. Here you can also find the area that many believe represents the most traditional and genuine side of Sardinia. Perched on a mountain, the town of Nuoro is one of the best places to visit to experience the traditional culture of the Sardinian people. Here you can find some of the best festivals anywhere in Sardinia and in many villages, local people still wear traditional colourful clothing. Nuoro is well worth a visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas and go back to the island's cultural routes.
